Biochemical defence and the nature of gene action against ‘Tikka’ disease in groundnut

Under the attack of Cereospora Spp. resistant genotypes as studied in groundnut are capable of maintaining a higher level of chlorophyll, soluble sugar, acid protein, RNA and total phenol content in their leaves. Gene action study revealed that both additive x dominance and dominance x dominance gene interactions are important for total phenol content in the leaves. Biparental matings followed by recurrent selection of types with increased amount of phenol inthe leaves would be suggested for the development of ‘Tikka’ disease resistant genotypes.